At Choices for Youth, we see hundreds of youth each year in need of housing. For many, living in unstable and unsafe conditions has been the only life they have known. Providing youth with housing is our first priority, and an essential step in making healthy transitions to stability and independence.

The Lilly is a housing model for youth that works. Both the programming and the physical layout of the building promote a sense of community, while maintaining individual home spaces in a youth-friendly environment. Participants work with staff through individual support models aiming to remove lifestyle, housing, educational, and employment barriers to finding security and stability.

The facility provides affordable housing and related supports to 14 homeless and at-risk youth. It consists of 1- and 2-bedroom units, with shared community spaces in the larger kitchens and eating areas, as well as in the living, recreational, and art spaces. Participants in the program take part in a variety of community programming – including camping and hiking trips, yoga and meditation, drumming circles, and goal-setting sessions – but also must be prepared to engage in employment and/or educational training programs.

The Lilly is St. John’s first affordable housing option for 16-24 year old male and female youth facing barriers to stability, independence, and security and in need of a supportive environment. It provides a crucial component of our city’s support system for youth at risk – for most of the youth who come to stay at The Lilly, it is the first time they have lived in a stable, safe environment.